Abstract: An automatic switch comprised of a dual-contact switch mechanism, a bimetallic thermostatic element, a solenoid-style tripping device, and an arc chamber complete with deionization plates. To eliminate one of the three electrical-hook-up steps (one, the physical attachment to a mounting, and the two electrical terminal connections), a group of components is provided for the switch assembly, including a plug-like terminal, which forms one end of the switch's electrical terminals on the rear housing wall, and an additional snap-action holding element disposed at the distal part of the rear housing wall from said plug-like terminal. The automatic switch incorporating these components can thus be snap-mounted onto a conductor rail by means of said plug terminal and onto a separate nonconductive mounting bar or rail--all in a single step. The remaining conductor can be wired-up in the traditional way thereby placing this switch in a circuit by only a two-step procedure.

Abstract: An automatic switch wherein a movable switch lever bears a contact element which cooperates with a fixed contact element bonded to a ferromagnetic contact strip which serves to provide a compact arc-extinguishing device. The ferromagnetic metal strip is mounted on the side of the contact element and/or on the movable switch lever's contact element on the side(s) directed away from the electrical contact surface(s). The application of the metal strip, or "blow plate," substantially improves the process of conducting away contact arcs from the contact elements to a set of deionization plates mounted inside the switch assembly.

Abstract: An automatic switch wherein a pivotal switch lever is trippable by means of either a solenoid, a thermal element or a hand lever. The grip member of said hand lever extends out through an opening in the forward side of the switch housing which is configured to communicate the actual state of the switch contacts to an external observer, regardless of the position of the hand lever. This is achieved through the use of a window mounted in the forward section of the switch housing near the hand lever opening and in the region of the forward end of the pivotal switch lever, which bears a pivotal detent lever and an indicator strip. This strip has one section which is disposed directly behind the window when the switch lever is in a certain position, but when the switch lever is in its other position that section is displaced from the window, effectively making it invisible to an outside observer.

Abstract: An arc-quenching automatic switch which includes an impact-armature tripping device, comprised of an armature core and an armature rod, a set of deionization plates, a thermostatic element, and a secondary circuit-breaking device which switches off said automatic switch in response to an external event. This event can be remotely sensed and registered by a current or voltage signal corresponding to said event whereby said event may be pre-arranged to trigger the open-circuit. This additional circuit-breaking device is comprised of a operating device for a coupling rod which projects into the armature core of the impact-armature tripping device.